Nicobarese oppose proposal for three wildlife sanctuaries

The Union government notified three wildlife sanctuaries in the Little Nicobar, Menchal, and Meroe islands in 2022, despite concerns from the Tribal Council of Little and Great Nicobar that the process was not conducted with proper consultation. The council argues that these islands are culturally and spiritually significant to them and their traditional practices should be respected. Congress leader and former Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh has written to Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram, urging him to intervene and withdraw clearances granted under the Forest Rights Act for the Great Nicobar Island project, citing violations of the law. The Tribal Council has consistently objected to the sanctuaries' declaration, arguing that it encroaches on their pre-existing rights and will negatively impact their livelihoods. The Calcutta High Court has dismissed preliminary objections raised by the government in relation to the Forest Rights Act violation allegations.